Smart Polymeric 3D Microscaffolds Hosting Spheroids for Neuronal Research via Quantum Metrology

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Engineering
• Neuroscience
• Quantum Sensing

Background:

• Innovative in vitro models are crucial for reducing animal testing in biological research.
• Dopaminergic neurons are central to understanding neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's disease (PD).
• Current 3D models lack the integrated sensing capabilities for detailed cellular analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel smart polymeric microscaffold for an advanced 3D model of dopaminergic neurons.
• To functionalize the microscaffold with fluorescent nanodiamonds (FNDs) for quantum sensing applications.
• To establish a biocompatible platform for studying PD mechanisms and enabling quantum metrology.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of Ormocomp microscaffolds using Two-Photon Polymerization.
• Functionalization of scaffolds with fluorescent nanodiamonds (FNDs) for magnetic and temperature sensing.
• Biocompatibility testing with SH-SY5Y and A431 cell lines, and integration with dopaminergic neuron embryoid bodies.

Main Results:

• Scaffolds demonstrated high biocompatibility (>98% for cell lines, 91% for final assembly).
• Successful grafting of FNDs onto the scaffold structure (69% efficiency).
• Established a 3D model with dopaminergic neurons showing directional neurite growth along the scaffold.

Conclusions:

• A novel FND-functionalized microscaffold platform was successfully developed.
• This 3D model provides a promising tool for in vitro research into Parkinson's disease.
• The platform enables quantum sensing and signaling readout in a relevant cellular model, advancing PD research and reducing animal use.